Among those who went with Romney, 44 percent said they backed him because they believed he had a better chance at beating Obama in November, and 37 percent said their main reason for choosing him was his ability to improve the still-tepid economy.
Santorum, a strict conservative on social issues such as abortion and gay rights, attracted voters who were interested in his principles. Of the respondents who supported him, 56 percent said they did so because he shared their values and beliefs.
“We sort of see that split in the Republican Party between people who are looking for a candidate that believes the same things they do versus the candidate who will perform the best” nationally, said Jackson, comparing the difference to a decision between the “head” and the “heart.”
“The most interesting thing that’s going to come out of Ohio is seeing which way the Republican (party) goes as a group.”
Join the conversation as a VIP Member